Grand Valley State University’s annual Accountability Report shows the university is producing exemplary results in graduation and retention rates, while at the same time holding down tuition and administration costs. The university released the report at its Nov. 1 Board of Trustees meeting.

The state legislature earlier this year recognized Grand Valley’s performance in key areas. It tied a small portion (1.7%) of state appropriation to university performance measures, and Grand Valley was rewarded for its performance in graduation rates and the number of degrees awarded in STEM and other critical fields.

The Accountability Report is divided in six easy-to-read sections, using data from outside sources that show Grand Valley succeeds in its mission and is fiscally responsible and accountable.

Here are some highlights from this year’s report:

- Grand Valley ranks in the top four for retention when compared to all other public universities in Michigan, and in the top three for graduation rates.

- Grand Valley’s tuition remains in the bottom half of all Michigan public universities, while it receives the lowest state funding per student.

- The economic impact of Grand Valley on Kent, Ottawa and Muskegon counties is $722 million.